Reliable irrigation system for agriculture in India
Innovative irrigation solution for rural regions
The Nagalwadi irrigation project in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh sets new standards in agricultural water supply. The region is very agricultural. 80% of the population works in this sector. The goal of this project is to ensure irrigation to 47,000 Ha of farmland in 106 villages. These villages have been experiencing long-term water shortages and have had limited access to irrigation for their agricultural land. By lifting water from the Narmada River, which is diverted to higher elevated areas, the new irrigation system ensures an equitable distribution of water and improves the living standards of thousands of farmers.
Complex infrastructure and technological implementation
The project included seven pumping stations controlled by a state-of-the-art PLC and Web SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) based automation system. Each pumping station is equipped with 36 sets of vertical turbine pumps from Wilo. The pumps were specially selected for their high efficiency and operational reliability. They meet the strict efficiency criteria of at least 88% for the pump and 95% for the motor to minimise energy consumption.
Customer-specific control and monitoring technology
Another key aspect of the project is the advanced PLC and Web based SCADA system installed in each pumping station. All pump stations can be remotely controlled and monitored via the PLC control panels and the web SCADA platform, allowing real-time control of levels, pressure and flow, and ensuring equitable water distribution. With a long-range LoRa WAN-based communication system, operational data can be efficiently transmitted and monitored, even in the remote areas. In this way, farmers can access the system at any time via their smartphone.
Improved quality of life and agricultural productivity
The project significantly contributes to the economic and ecological development of the region. The uniform water supply increases agricultural productivity and quality of life in rural regions. In addition to improved Water Use Efficiency (WUE), training and awareness programs are offered for farmers aimed at making efficient use of modern irrigation techniques. The use of Wilo vertical turbine pumps and innovative control technology ensures long-term, stable operation and minimises operating costs. The Nagalwadi irrigation project is an example of sustainable infrastructure and food supply security. Thus, it serves other regions as a model for resource efficiency and operational reliability.
Technical data and installed products
Project period: July 2018 to June 2023
Number of pumping stations: 7 in different configurations
Flow: Pumping station 1 to 7 ranging from 6,372 and 54,000 m³/h
Delivery head: up to 114.95 m
Pump type: Wilo vertical turbine pumps
Total irrigated command area: 47,000 hectares of farmland
Total installed motor power: 77.60 MW